Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows of the cramped cubicle, mirroring the storm brewing within Maria. The pressure in her chest grew with each passing minute. The email from HR, announcing the interview schedule, sat open on her screen, taunting her.

Her vision blurred. She rubbed her eyes, trying to focus on the text. The words seemed to swim. She needed to prepare a presentation. She needed to practice her answers. But a crushing weight made it impossible to start. Her fingers felt thick and clumsy as she tried to open the document.

She leaned back in her chair, the sudden stillness a small relief. The office chatter faded. The world outside, the rain, all felt so very distant.